in place timely to accommodate future needs.
- Financial Sustainability: By accurately assessing the costs associated with growth, a rate study contributes to the financial sustainability of the City. It prevents the burden of new infrastructure costs from falling solely on existing residents and taxpayers.
- Long-Term Planning: Impact fee studies are part of the City's long-term planning efforts. This study will help the City prepare for growth in an organized and sustainable manner.
- Economic Development: Balanced and reasonable impact fees can encourage responsible and sustainable development, which can attract businesses and promote economic growth.
The City’s impact fee study has significant implications for growth, infrastructure investment and financial sustainability. When conducted comprehensively and transparently, it serves as a valuable tool for both City officials and the community as they plan for and manage the impacts of growth and development.
- Public Safety Complex Construction: Constructing a new Fire Station is in the City's Capital Improvement Plan for FY 2025/26, with a budget of $390,000 for architecture, engineering and site development. The construction will require financing. This project falls under the Safe Community Priority, specifically Goal #1.
- Building Department and Emergency Operations Center: The City of Eustis purchase a building adjacent to City Hall in May 2026. The intention is to house the Building Services Department and provide space for the Emergency Operations Center. The staff has outgrown the office space at City Hall and the available property nearby provided a solution to a number of issues.
- Downtown Development: The City represents a strategic approach to revitalize the urban core, ensuring it remains vibrant, economically thriving and culturally rich. The goal is to blend historic preservation with modern enhancements, aiming to attract businesses, residents, and increase tourism. The City plans to achieve this with infrastructure upgrades, enhancing recreational spaces and promoting arts and cultural events. The City is focused on transforming the downtown area into a bustling hub of activity which includes new restaurants, parking spaces, hotels, apartment complexes and Ferran Park upgrades.
Downtown development will bring several significant benefits to both the City and its residents:
- Economic Revitalization: Attracting new businesses, supporting local entrepreneurs and creating a mixed-use space that promotes economic growth.
- Historical Preservation: Maintaining and restoring historical buildings to preserve the City's heritage while blending in modern amenities.
- Infrastructure Upgrades: Improving roads, public transportation options and parking facilities to make the downtown area more accessible.
- Green Spaces and Recreational Areas: Improving Ferran Park, surrounding plazas and pedestrian zones increases the quality of life and attract more residents and visitors.
- Cultural Initiatives: Encouraging the development of arts, music and cultural events
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